The internet has brought a proliferation of gambling opportunities that extend beyond the traditional poker machines and a flutter on the races, according to financial counsellor Nick Georgiou.
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Mr Georgiou and colleague Julie McDermott, a gambling help counsellor, from Wagga Family Support, are urging people to think about their gambling habits – and to reach out for help if they think they need it.
There is still a great deal of stigma attached to “problem gambling” and the pair fear this may stop people asking for help.
“We are encouraging people to take a few minutes and think about their gambling and whether they are happy with it,” Ms McDermott said.
“It’s not thinking about it in a judgemental way, just consider ‘have I really got this under control’.”
Ms McDermott said the message for people who are unhappy with their gambling habits was simple: “You don’t have to struggle alone.”
She said the period between the end of the football season and the Melbourne Cup was a good time for people to consider if they needed to make any changes to their gambling behaviour.
“It can be hard to avoid the increased media coverage and sports betting advertising around this time of year,” Ms McDermott said.
“However, regardless of whether you like betting on the occasional long shot or always backing favourites, Responsible Gambling Week is a great time to keep your limits in mind.
“We’re not against gambling. Gambling is a form of paid entertainment.
“But when you start to gamble for reasons other than paid entertainment, then it might be worth coming in and having a chat to us.”
Counselling services are available free of charge from Wagga Family Support.
“We are here to help people who want to make changes,” Ms McDermott said.
Mr Georgiou said people often struggled to reach out for help with their gambling.
“Someone may work up the guts to talk to a family member or a friend and get told ‘you idiot’.
“But we want to help people find a way out.”
To mark Gambling Awareness Week, Wagga Family Support will hold afternoon tea on Thursday, October 26, between 3pm and 5pm, at 1/129 Fitzmaurice Street.